Child Custody, Domestic Violence, Not Married - Moved to another state?

Question

I lived in florida, moved to georgia to have a baby...The babys father was abussive, had to go to a domestic Violence Shelter., From that shelter, i moved to florida and in another dv shelter.....the father is trying to get full custody of our son.Does anyone know how and what will it turn out like..he has already filed papers in court for full custody...i moved back to florida becuase my family and friends and my job are there...i am working full time, the kids are in a great daycare, I got an apartment so i am all set....any one have advice.......the father was also controlling, wouldn't let me have friends, couldn't get a job, couldn't go anywhere without letting him know, accused me of everything, couldn't wave to neighbors, told me what i could and could'nt wear, then he was physical, choking me with our son in his hands, yanking me accrossed the kitchen by my hair, etc....when i remind him of that he denys it all..i never called cops, he took phone and i was afraid they arrest me

Answer 1

You need to call and attain an attorney for yourself right away. Doesn't matter what the cost, because you do not want to lose your children, especially to an abuser. Call the Florida bar if you are in Florida now, and they can help you get an attorney.

Everything you describe is classic domestic violence. Should have called the cops when you had the chance. If any of the stuff he did to you was on record, getting custody of the children would be a piece of cake. I do not mean to tell you something you already know, but if anyone reads this that is in a similar situation, I hope they will take this as a lesson and call the cops when their husband/boyfriend abuses them!

I wish you the best of luck! Keep your head up, get an attorney, and things should work out fine. Start calling around to your friends and family and anyone else that might have witnessed the abuse you suffered. That will help you out some when this goes to court. Good luck!

Answer 2

I don't know how it works where you are. Here in Pennsylvania, if there is no underlying custody order already in place, the case has to be handled in the county where the child lives. Regarding the violence issues...if there is no documentation (police reports, etc.), and abuse is alleged, typically Child Services will investigate or the Court will order a psychological evaluation. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

if you never called the police there isnt solid proof any of this happened, although you could get the people at the shelter that gave you counseling to testify...unfortunately...he will probably get partial custody with visitation and have to pay child support. there are very rare instances where a father would get full physical custody. you need to document ever interaction you have with this man...dates/times/reason etc. if anything ever happens you NEED to call the police.

Answer 4

Why didn't you call the cops (surely he couldn't have watched you 24/7)? Police reports certainly would have helped your case. Otherwise, without some kind of evidence, it's just your word against his. Get an attorney!

Answer 5

he will not get custody you have what the child9ren0 need a good stable home plus courts want both parents involved so i would file a show cause order asking him to show why it would be better for him to have kids he has no good reasons you have provided well for the kids and yourself

Answer 6

What you need to do is FIND A LAWYER VERY QUICKLY!!! Whatever you do DO NOT LET him take the kids before court date because he probably would not have to return them.